Method and system for provisioning IMS networks with virtual service organizations having distinct service logic

Abstract

Methods and systems for provisioning IMS networks with Virtual Service Organizations (VSOs) or Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) that have distinct service logic, enabling VSOs and MVNOs to provide distinctive service experiences. Call models are provisioned so that different users can have distinct IMS service experiences. The IMS network includes a serving call state control function (S-CSCF) for providing user device session control. A database having selectable call model information associates IMS service codes with application servers (ASs) based on a user / group identity. S-CSCF logic receives a service request having a user identity, accesses the database, and instantiates a call model having filter codes that associate IMS service codes with ASs. The ASs have service logic to provide services for a corresponding IMS service code. Call models have different ASs with different service logic associated with a specified IMS service code, such that two call models will provide distinct service experience for a specified IMS service code.

Description

BACKGROUND[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]The invention generally relates to IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) networks and, more specifically, to IMS networks with dynamic call models.[0003]2. Discussion of Related Art[0004]Commonly deployed wireless communication networks, usually referred to as 2.5G networks, support both voice and data services. Typically, mobile handsets are connected to a Base Transceiver Station (BTS) using a Radio Access Network (RAN) that uses a modulation scheme such as CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) or GSM (Global System for Mobile communications). The BTSs are connected via fixed links to one or more Base Station Controller (BSC) and the BSCs are aggregated into switches called Mobile Switching Centers (MSCs). The MSC is connected to the Public Land Mobile Network / Public Switched Telephone Network (PLMN / PSTN), typically through a gateway switch called the Gateway Mobile Switching Center (GMSC). Sometimes the term “core network” is used to collecti...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The invention provides methods and systems for creating virtual service organizations (VSOs) or mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) in an IMS network. This allows for distinct service experiences and not just branding or billing. The system provisions call models within the IMS network with different users having distinct service experiences. The HSS provides an initial call model at UE registration and the call model database provides call model information to the S-CSCF subsequent to UE registration. The call model database includes service codes associated with application servers (ASs) and the ASs are responsive to service point triggers (SPTs) and provide service for a corresponding IMS service code. The invention allows for different call models with different service logic associated with a specified IMS service code, such that the two call models will provide distinct service experience for the specified IMS service code. The invention also allows for the S-CSCF and at least one AS to be co-located or the S-CSCF to maintain the call model database. The technical effects of the invention include improved service experiences and more efficient use of network resources."

Problems solved by technology

Such stateful connections that cross administrative domains have high networking costs and are difficult to maintain operationally.

One problem with such an arrangement is that service differentiation is not possible amongst the various MVNOs.

In the example referred to above, MVNO1 and MVNO2 are both tied to the service logic provided by the network infrastructure, and they are not able to differentiate their services.

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